Category: Attack the Press

Trump Targets Reporter Over Military Reporting Reflecting Disturbing Republican Anti-Press Trend

President Donald Trump lashed out at CNN reporter Natasha Bertrand, demanding her termination after she reported on the shortcomings of a U.S. military operation in Iran. In a Truth Social post, Trump claimed that Bertrand’s coverage was “Fake News” and insinuated that she should be “thrown out like a dog,” reflecting his pattern of attacking journalists who oppose him or his narrative.

Trump’s vitriol was aimed at Bertrand’s reporting, which indicated that a preliminary intelligence assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) suggested that recent U.S. airstrikes had minimally impacted Iran’s nuclear program. While Trump boasted of “TOTAL OBLITERATION,” Bertrand’s work presented a contrasting, nuanced picture that highlighted the operation’s limited effectiveness.

CNN responded firmly, standing by Bertrand’s journalism and emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting even amidst Trump’s relentless assaults on the press. A spokesperson noted that the assessment Bertrand reported was presented with cautious confidence and stressed the responsibility of news organizations to inform the public about critical intelligence developments. 

In his insistence that Bertrand be let go, Trump showcased his disdain for media accountability, directly undermining journalistic integrity. This move aligns with his broader attempts to delegitimize critical reporting, particularly in light of his unsuccessful military endeavors and increasing scrutiny of his administration’s decisions.

The situation not only reflects Trump’s personal vendetta against specific reporters but also underscores a dangerous trend among Republicans who openly antagonize the free press, exacerbating tensions between government officials and independent journalism in America.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/fire-natasha-trump-launches-scathing-attack-on-cnn-reporter-demands-she-be-thrown-out-like-a-dog/)

Trump Launches Hostile Media Attack Amid Controversial Iran Military Strike

President Donald Trump has launched another vehement attack on the media, branding reports about a controversial military strike on Iran as deceptive. Responding to critiques of the operation, Trump referred to journalists as “sleazebags,” accusing them of trying to undermine his administration’s efforts. His latest remarks were made via his platform, Truth Social, where he claimed that the targets of the strikes were “totally destroyed” contrary to reports stating otherwise.

Trump’s accusations prominently included CNN’s Allison Cooper and ABC’s Jonathan Karl, whom he insultingly nicknamed. He emphasized that media outlets are perpetuating false narratives to diminish his achievements, asserting that their credibility has plummeted to an all-time low. This rhetoric is consistent with Trump’s history of attacking the press, particularly those who report critically on his administration.

This incident is part of a broader pattern among Trump and his allies, who frequently dismiss unfavorable media portrayals as “fake news.” Such attacks not only erode public trust in journalism but also underscore an alarming trend of Republican authoritarianism aimed at silencing dissenting voices.

Moreover, the operation’s effectiveness has been brought into question, with reports indicating that the strikes merely delayed Afghanistan’s nuclear ambitions. This has raised concerns among analysts regarding the real ramifications of military actions that Trump attempts to frame as successes.

By continuing this hostile relationship with the press, Trump perpetuates a damaging environment where misinformation can flourish, further polarizing the political landscape. His disdain for accountability and transparency in governance reflects a dangerous approach that prioritizes personal image over factual reporting and responsible leadership.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-iran-2672419065/)

Trump’s Attacks Expose Authoritarian Shift in GOP Rhetoric

President Donald Trump, consistently hostile toward the media, recently labeled journalists as “sleazebags” for reporting on his military actions against Iran. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed that his airstrikes had completely “destroyed” the targeted sites, dismissing contrary reports as attempts to demean his administration’s efforts. His rhetoric underscores a trend where facts are secondary to inflammatory language and personal attacks.

Among those specifically criticized were CNN’s Allison Cooper and ABC’s Jonathan Karl, both of whom Trump accused of misrepresenting the success of the strikes. Trump’s comments reflect a broader strategy within the Republican party to undermine credible news sources, which they label as ‘fake news’ to shift public discourse and deflect criticism. This tactic serves to rally their base around a narrative of victimization by the press.

The airstrikes, framed by Trump as a “spectacular military success,” are positioned in stark contrast to his administration’s previous diplomatic stances on Iran, raising concerns about the potential for increased conflict in the region. Trump’s dismissive attitude toward critical reporting not only reflects a personal vendetta but also aligns with a wider GOP shift toward authoritarianism, where dissenting views are silenced rather than engaged.

This ongoing war of words against the media comes as Trump grapples with declining favorability ratings, which he attributes to biased reporting rather than addressing the substance of his policies and their implications. By attacking reputable news outlets, he aims to strengthen his appeal among supporters while fostering division and mistrust in democratic institutions.

Ultimately, Trump’s actions emphasize a disturbing trend in American politics where the leader of the free world engages in hostile confrontations with the press, further unveiling the authoritarian undertones of his administration and the Republican party’s willingness to undermine democratic norms for political gain.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-iran-2672419065/)

Trump’s Attacks Expose Authoritarian Shift in GOP Rhetoric

President Donald Trump, consistently hostile toward the media, recently labeled journalists as “sleazebags” for reporting on his military actions against Iran. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed that his airstrikes had completely “destroyed” the targeted sites, dismissing contrary reports as attempts to demean his administration’s efforts. His rhetoric underscores a trend where facts are secondary to inflammatory language and personal attacks.

Among those specifically criticized were CNN’s Allison Cooper and ABC’s Jonathan Karl, both of whom Trump accused of misrepresenting the success of the strikes. Trump’s comments reflect a broader strategy within the Republican party to undermine credible news sources, which they label as ‘fake news’ to shift public discourse and deflect criticism. This tactic serves to rally their base around a narrative of victimization by the press.

The airstrikes, framed by Trump as a “spectacular military success,” are positioned in stark contrast to his administration’s previous diplomatic stances on Iran, raising concerns about the potential for increased conflict in the region. Trump’s dismissive attitude toward critical reporting not only reflects a personal vendetta but also aligns with a wider GOP shift toward authoritarianism, where dissenting views are silenced rather than engaged.

This ongoing war of words against the media comes as Trump grapples with declining favorability ratings, which he attributes to biased reporting rather than addressing the substance of his policies and their implications. By attacking reputable news outlets, he aims to strengthen his appeal among supporters while fostering division and mistrust in democratic institutions.

Ultimately, Trump’s actions emphasize a disturbing trend in American politics where the leader of the free world engages in hostile confrontations with the press, further unveiling the authoritarian undertones of his administration and the Republican party’s willingness to undermine democratic norms for political gain.

(h/t: https://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-iran-2672419065/)

Trump’s Fractured Alliance: Attacks on Fox News and Murdoch Signal Shift in Republican Media Dynamics

Recently, Donald Trump launched a barrage of attacks on Rupert Murdoch’s media empire, particularly targeting Fox News. In a series of posts on Truth Social, he expressed disdain for the network, asserting that “MAGA HATES FoxNews.” Trump criticized Fox polls, claiming they consistently misrepresent his popularity, while undermining the network’s polling practices and branding their results as biased and unreliable.

Trump’s condemnation of Fox News isn’t new; he reiterated that the network, which has previously supported him, has failed to accurately portray his standing among voters. His latest tirade also included complaints about Fox’s polling company, stating that they have been “discredited,” and accusing them of being consistently negative toward him. This reflects Trump’s ongoing struggle to control the narrative around his campaign as the election draws near.

In addition to his grievances with Fox News, Trump criticized The Wall Street Journal, another Murdoch property, by claiming it misrepresents his views on foreign policy issues, particularly regarding Iran. This marks a notable shift for Trump, who had previously praised Murdoch during an Oval Office meeting, referring to him as “legendary.” This apparent disconnect highlights the complexities of Trump’s relationship with Murdoch’s outlets.

Trump’s rhetoric demonstrates his tendency to attack the very allies he once relied upon for favorable coverage. Such behavior reveals the fragility of his support within the conservative media landscape, suggesting that even networks traditionally seen as allies can fall under scrutiny when they fail to align with his narrative.

Ultimately, Trump’s criticisms of Fox News and Murdoch reflect his ongoing attempts to maintain control over his image and messaging as he navigates a challenging political landscape. The fallout from his tirades underscores a fracturing relationship that could have significant implications for the Republican party and its strategy ahead of the elections.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/maga-hates-foxnews-trump-lashes-out-at-murdoch-media-empire-in-truth-social-tirade/)

Trump Dismisses Carlson’s Critique on Israel-Iran Policy

Donald Trump recently responded to Tucker Carlson’s accusations of complicity in Israel’s attacks on Iran, which were presented in Carlson’s newsletter titled “This Could Be the Final Newsletter Before All-Out War.” The former Fox News host, known for his MAGA alignments, criticized Trump for his administration’s foreign policy and military actions in the Middle East.

During a news conference where Trump announced a trade agreement between the U.S. and the UK, he was questioned about Carlson’s charges. Trump dismissed the accusations, stating, “I don’t know what Tucker Carlson is saying. Let him go get a television network and say it so that people listen. Thank you.” This deflection further highlights Trump’s typical approach to criticism, often undermining his detractors rather than engaging with their points.

Carlson’s critique reflects a growing divide within the Republican Party, where many factions are increasingly vocal about disagreements on foreign policy. Trump’s administration has faced scrutiny for its perceived leniency towards Israel and its aggressive stance against Iran, leading to contrasting narratives emerging among right-wing commentators.

This incident underscores a larger issue within the Republican base, as figures like Carlson continue to question Trump’s strategies while maintaining their allegiance to the broader MAGA movement. The tensions between Trump and influential media personalities illustrate the complexities facing the party as it approaches the upcoming electoral cycles.

As the discourse escalates, it becomes clear that Trump’s leadership style and foreign policy decisions remain contentious topics among conservatives. Tucker Carlson’s sharp criticisms may resonate with a segment of the Republican electorate that is growing disillusioned with Trump’s approach, compelling them to reconsider their support for his candidacy moving forward.

(h/t: https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/news/trump-responds-tucker-carlson-israel-iran-attack-b2771167.html)

Trump’s Fort Bragg Rally Highlights Dangerous Alliance Between Military and Anti-Press Rhetoric

During a rally at Fort Bragg, President Donald Trump incited military personnel to boo the media, referring to them as “fake news.” This event marks yet another instance of Trump attempting to delegitimize journalistic entities while appealing to his supporters. Accompanying him was Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, signifying a troubling fusion of military and political rhetoric. Trump’s actions are emblematic of the Republican Party’s ongoing assault on the press, undermining democratic principles and fostering a hostile environment for free speech.

The rally also served as a platform for Trump to emphasize his administration’s controversial decision to restore the name “Fort Bragg,” after efforts by a previous administration to rename it “Fort Liberty.” The decision to revert to the original name, associated with Confederate General Braxton Bragg, shows allegiance to outdated and divisive historical figures. The party’s handlers conveniently framed the name change to honor a different soldier, further attempting to sanitize the legacy of racism that permeates their choices.

As Trump mocked the press and amplified the crowd’s jeers, he reinforced a narrative of victimhood, positioning himself as a target of media bias while simultaneously using military personnel as props in his political theater. His dismissive comments, like “what I have to put up with!” illustrate a tactic long employed by right-wing figures to distract from their failures and mobilize support through shared animosity toward a common enemy: the media.

This rally showcases a broader trend within the Republican Party of using military settings to legitimize their messaging. By uniting the armed forces with his anti-press rhetoric, Trump seeks to erase the line between civil discourse and blatant authoritarianism. This relationship reaffirms the dangerous precedent that political leaders can dictate the narrative and mold public opinion by stoking resentment against institutions that are supposed to provide accountability.

Ultimately, Trump’s rally at Fort Bragg exemplifies the troubling trajectory of modern Republican politics. By manipulating the military’s presence and vilifying the press, Trump aims to cultivate a culture of misinformation and control that erodes democratic ideals. The event underscores the need for vigilance against this ongoing assault on the truth and democratic values.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/politics/trump-goads-troops-at-fort-bragg-into-booing-the-media-look-what-i-have-to-put-up-with/)

ABC News Suspends Anchor Terry Moran at the Direction of Trump White House

ABC News has suspended veteran correspondent Terry Moran following a controversial social media post that criticized President Donald Trump and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. In a statement, ABC emphasized its commitment to objectivity and impartiality in news coverage, asserting that Moran’s comments did not reflect the network’s views and violated its standards, prompting an evaluation of his actions.

The now-deleted post on Moran’s social media account called Trump a “world-class hater,” suggesting that the former president’s animosity serves only to glorify himself, likening it to “spiritual nourishment.” This bold assertion has sparked reactions from Trump’s allies, who view it as further evidence of bias in mainstream media and are demanding accountability for Moran’s remarks.

Trump, known for his aggressive stance against news outlets he perceives as biased, has been involved in multiple legal actions against the press, including a $20 billion lawsuit against CBS for alleged deceptive editing in a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris. Moreover, he previously reached a settlement with ABC News after pursuing a libel lawsuit against them.

Miller, who has advised Trump since his first term and is a significant proponent of the administration’s strict immigration policies, responded to Moran’s critique by framing it as indicative of a larger issue within the corporate media, which he accused of adopting a radical stance while masquerading as impartial journalists.

Moran has been with ABC News since 1997 and recently conducted an interview with Trump during the early months of his second term. The fallout from his social media activity underscores the ongoing tensions between the Republican administration and the press amidst claims of bias and attacks on journalistic integrity.

(h/t: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/08/abc-correspondent-suspended-post-condemning-trump-00393929)

Trump Has Prepared Stash of Executive Orders to Distract Media

President Donald Trump’s administration consistently relied on a trove of executive orders and proclamations strategically crafted to influence public narrative and deflect from pressing issues. Months before his recent travel ban announcement, Trump’s team had prepped this controversial measure, showing a pattern of planned, reactive governance designed to control headlines and public discourse.

In announcing the travel ban, Trump attempted to link it to a criminal incident involving an Egyptian individual, even asserting that the threat posed by foreign nationals was significant. However, White House officials admitted that the proclamation was not a direct reaction to the event, highlighting the administration’s premeditated intentions rather than genuine response to security concerns.

Throughout his presidency, Trump utilized a plethora of executive actions to impose his priorities, often invoking crises to justify his administration’s decisions. White House personnel indicated that many orders were prepared in advance, waiting to be deployed at the president’s convenience, reflecting a tactical approach to governance that contrasts sharply with conventional legislative processes.

This tactic has led to a significant uptick in executive orders signed by Trump, surpassing the output of past presidents in mere months. In total, Trump has signed more than 150 executive orders in less than five months—a pace unprecedented in modern presidential history and indicative of a governing style focused on unilateral action rather than collaboration with Congress.

Trump’s governance emphasizes bravado over substance, utilizing executive powers swiftly while leaving legislative achievements largely unfulfilled. This pattern persists as he aims to consolidate authority and shape political narratives to favor his administration, revealing an authoritarian tendency that raises profound concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/06/06/trump-executive-orders-strategy/)

Trump’s Frivolous $20 Billion Lawsuit Against CBS Threatens Press Freedom and Journalistic Integrity

Donald Trump is claiming “mental anguish” from his contentious 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris, alleging that CBS News manipulated the footage to disadvantage him politically. This bizarre assertion is part of his ongoing $20 billion defamation lawsuit against CBS, where he argues that the First Amendment is being misused to protect media dishonesty. Trump’s legal team contends that the amended footage caused confusion for consumers and financial harm to his business interests, including Truth Social.

In this legal struggle, Trump’s demands—initially set at $25 million and an apology—show his disregard for journalistic integrity as he attempts to silence critical coverage. This lawsuit has been widely dismissed by legal experts as frivolous, undermining the fundamental principles of free speech and press freedom. Despite Trump’s threats, Paramount Global has shown interest in settling, especially as their merger plans hinge on a favorable relationship with the Trump administration.

Additionally, the pressure from Trump’s lawsuits has led to significant tension within CBS News, resulting in the resignations of high-profile executives, including 60 Minutes’ Bill Owens and CBS News chief Wendy McMahon. These resignations highlight the chilling effect Trump’s legal actions have on editorial independence and truth in journalism. The air of intimidation pursues not only media corporations but threatens the very tenets of journalism.

Amidst stalled negotiations, Trump continues to push the narrative that CBS and its parent company’s alleged editorial choices have maliciously distorted the public’s perception of him. His insistence that “the First Amendment is no shield to news distortion” serves to further erode trust in the media while aiming to establish a precedent where he can effectively weaponize litigation against any critical coverage.

The implications of Trump’s lawsuit extend beyond personal revenge; they threaten the integrity of media organizations. CBS is reportedly acting with caution, fearful of potential anti-bribery investigations if they concede to Trump’s demands. The balance between legal protection against defamation and the obligation to report truthfully is at jeopardy as Trump’s relentless attacks on the press continue to challenge the foundations of democracy.

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